Te Anau resident and amateur historian Merv Halliday was recently recognised as a Paul Harris Fellow by the Rotary Club of Fiordland. 

Mr Halliday was recognised for his contributions to Southland and Fiordland history, such as researching and organising a memorial kiosk at Lynwood Cemetery paying tribute to the some 70 people who have gone missing in Fiordland.

Mr Halliday, a long-time Rotarian, said he enjoyed the fellowship of the club and its larger contributions to the community. 

Mr Halliday is also well known for his organised trips to the Chatham Islands from Fiordland. 

The Paul Harris Fellow is named for the founder of Rotary and was established in 1957. Clubs can an set their own criteria for naming a Paul Harris Fellow, but it is usually done to express appreciation for outstanding commitment to the club or the community.